the Academy inside out. However, very often someone would prove him wrong. The buildings and the surrounding area hid many mysteries, puzzles and secrets. He could even say that there was no one who knew them all.
‘Always optimistic.’ The elf wanted him to think she was reprimanding him, but the stronger squeeze on his arm revealed more than she intended. It also caused the earl's heart to beat a little faster.
Darius did not have time to respond, because a short, slightly stooped man with a pale, slightly yellowed face, narrowed eyes and a hooked nose emerged from Solvein. He immediately headed in their direction. When he stood in front of them, he was breathing heavily. He did not seem to be accustomed to physical exertion. His appearance suggested as much. He was thin, with tousled hair and long, bony fingers with ink-stained fingertips. A clerk or scholar deeply immersed in his work.
‘Good morning, Colonel, Your Royal Highness.’ Bleist had to revise his assessment, because the voice he heard belonged to a rather young boy, not a mature man. He must have misjudged the messenger’s age based on his appearance. ‘The rector invites you to his office. Allow me to show you in.’ He bowed again and, without further ado, turned towards the entrance to Solvein.
Darius followed the boy with Gizel at his side. He had been to the rector's office several times before, but that was years ago, when he was still a student. At that time, Duke von Konlah did not hold his current position, but taught practical magic in the military department. His classes always gave Darius food for thought. The senior mage's approach to the practical application of magical abilities often defied the rules described in books or common practice. Thanks to these classes, Bleist developed somewhat unconventional reflexes and habits, which in turn proved helpful during real combat.
They passed through the door in silence and immediately headed for the nearest spiral staircase leading upwards. The pensive guide kept his eyes fixed on the steps in front of him, but he did
